Lee Hyori's 30-Year-Old Street Interview Revealed

A scene from singer Lee Hyori's pre-debut street interview has recently resurfaced and become a hot topic, with anchor Kwon Soon-pyo, a former reporter, sharing anecdotes about it. Anchor Kwon revealed that about 30 years ago, while conducting citizen interviews related to an economic downturn, he spotted a young woman who looked intelligent and decided to interview her. He explained that over 20 years later, he was contacted by a junior colleague saying the video had gone viral, and that's when he learned the interviewee was Lee Hyori. He added that at the time, he had no idea she was Lee Hyori as she hadn't debuted yet, and he had even forgotten he had interviewed her.

Regarding his reason for choosing Lee Hyori as an interview subject, Anchor Kwon stated, "She looked very pretty and intelligent." Although she appeared to have just graduated from high school, he recalled being impressed by how smoothly she spoke about the economic situation, despite not being at an age where one would typically be knowledgeable about economics. The interview took place at the start of the new year in 1997, and Lee Hyori responded, "​Since the economy was so bad last year, I think it will get better this year." About a year later, in May 1998, Lee Hyori debuted with the group Fin.K.L. and is currently active as a solo singer and entertainer.

Anchor Kwon Soon-pyo also jokingly claimed to be the first to discover Lee Hyori's star potential. In the accompanying video, Lee Hyori captivated viewers with her signature eye smile and chubby cheeks. Lee Hyori debuted as a member of the group Fin.K.L. in 1998, releasing numerous hit songs and also distinguishing herself in the entertainment industry. She married singer Lee Sang-soon in 2013 and last year opened a yoga studio, where she also works as a yoga instructor.